API-650 Tank-Settlement check / Hydrotest with scaffolding?

[0984]

Hi all,
In my site, we have a SS Tank (12M dia & 30M h)which is now need to do a settlement check/hydrotest/waterfilling test. But now its full of scaffolding inside and outside and the main contractor is ready to do with scaffold on. In my experience for bigger tank mostly never use scaffold, we use buggy. So i'm not aware that it is possible or not. I had checked in API 650 but can't able to find any probs. just want to confirm.. is it a best practice in a live plant. I'm a Client inspector, so need to give confirmation. Kindly advice.

 

[FrCivEng]

Keeping the scaffolding inside and outside should not be allowed because during hydrotest, not only settlement but also verticality and ovalization should be checked for both new (API 650) and in service repaired (API 653) tanks

 

[MJCronin]

A

http://wwwwwww...!!!!

I have always liked that "just after the hurricane" look of floating scaffolding when I do a hydrotest.

Its also always the perfect time to bring the Owner to the jobsite for a tour of how things are going...

 

[IFRs]

If the scaffolding is not attached to the tank and does not restrict the tank from distorting or settling I see no problem hydro testing the tank with the scaffolding inside or outside. I'm envisioning scaffold towers encircling the tank inside and ouf.